Young Achievers

Branson students win essay contest

The Branson-Hollister VFW Post No. 11290 recently sponsored a Patriot's Pen writing competition among area middle schools as part of a national essay competition.

It asked students to submit an issue on this topic: "What I would tell America's Founding Fathers."

The Branson student winners, who were under the direction of junior high history teacher John Mathews, were presented awards by local post representatives Gerald Long and Richard Baehr.

Those winners include Cecilia Corbin, first place; Jacob Banks, second place; and Adriauna Youngdahl, third place.

According to a news release, district winners will advance to state competition early this year.

Ozark students score in math competition

Ozark students score in math competition

Seven Ozark students recently competed in a qualifying round of the Great Plains Math League. The event was in West Plains.

A news release from the district stated that a total of about 150 students competed in the event by taking four tests. They received awards for their grade level as well as for overall planning.

Overall, Ozark took third in the competition behind Nixa and Branson.

Results for Ozark students include:

? Target test: Ben Maples, first place for grade 12 and second place overall; Lauren Troy, second place for grade 12 and fourth place overall.

? Sprint test: Ian Hall, first place for grade 10 and ninth place overall; Nick Cain, third place for grade 10 and 17th place overall; Zach Miller, second place for grade 12 and third place overall; Nik Burks, fifth place for grade 12 and 13th place overall.